The U.S. Navy issued the following news release:
Sailors and Department of the Navy (DON) employees throughout Navy Region Southwest will observe the first 70 days of the new DON-sponsored mass transit benefit program June 9.
The Transportation Incentive Program (TIP) was implemented by the DON, April 1. This program helps Sailors and DON employees reduce travel costs as well as reduce their daily contribution to traffic congestion and air pollution.
TIP can pay up to $230.00 per month for mass transit costs, which includes transportation via van pools, buses, trolleys and commuter trains. These costs are paid quarterly in vouchers for gas, trolley and ferry rides to and from work.
Chief Aviation Structural Mechanic (Equipment) Randy Pimentel is a primary driver for the van pool in his community. Every work day he commutes approximately 184 miles to and from his home in Riverside County to Naval Base Coronado along with seven other service members.
Pimentel said since using TIP, it has helped him significantly reduce the amount of money he spends on his daily commutes.
"Since the gas prices went up, people are hurting, the program not only provides transportation but vouchers for gas money," he said. "It's also very environmental friendly. I have seven people in my pool, so it puts fewer vehicles on the road and that helps lower the gas emissions pollution and relieve traffic congestion."
Thomas Wall, the Navy Region Southwest TIP manager, says the long term benefit of using the program is lower insurance costs on a privately owned vehicle due to lower amount of miles put on it, reduction of costs associated with wear and tear on an automobile, and the relief of stress with a long commute.
"The program will pay for pretty much all the expenses of coming to work via mass transportation," said Wall. "I can save you guys about $500 a month."
For more information about the program, visit http://www.fmo.navy.mil/services/tip/tip.htm
For more news from Naval Base San Diego, visit www.navy.mil/local/NBSD/
By Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Dominique Pineiro, Naval Base San Diego Public Affairs
Copyright Targeted News Services
TNS MJ88-110608-3427507 EditorFurigay
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